Boudin King Cake
Boudin King Cake is a fun twist on the classic king cake, blending the spicy, flavorful charm of boudin sausage with the sweet, festive dough of a traditional king cake.…
By Ava
•
•
Reading time: 7 min
Tip: save now, make later.
Boudin King Cake is a fun twist on the classic king cake, blending the spicy, flavorful charm of boudin sausage with the sweet, festive dough of a traditional king cake. Imagine flaky pastry swirled with a savory and smoky filling that makes every bite surprising and satisfying. It’s a great way to celebrate Mardi Gras or just add a little Louisiana flair to your day.
I love making Boudin King Cake when friends come over because it always sparks curiosity and good conversation. It’s not your average sweet treat—there’s something about combining that rich boudin filling with the tender king cake dough that just works so well. If you want a little extra kick, try serving it with a side of mustard or hot sauce for dipping.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how it brings together sweet and savory in a way that’s totally unexpected but super tasty. It’s perfect for sharing at a brunch or party, and everyone always asks for the recipe afterward. If you’ve never had boudin before, this is a delicious way to try it for the first time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions for Boudin King Cake
Boudin sausage: This is the heart of the filling. It brings a smoky, spicy flavor. If you can’t find boudin, try a combination of cooked smoked sausage and seasoned rice as a substitute.
Dough ingredients: Using active dry yeast and warm liquids helps get the dough soft and fluffy. If you prefer, you can swap milk for a plant-based alternative like almond milk for a dairy-free option.
Cheese and bacon topping: Sharp cheddar adds richness and a bit of tang. Feel free to mix in Parmesan or use smoked Gouda for extra depth. Crispy bacon is a must here, but for a vegetarian version, add caramelized onions instead.
How Do You Get the Perfect Fluffy Dough for a Boudin King Cake?
Getting the dough right makes all the difference. Here’s what helps me:
- Make sure water and milk are warm (not hot) to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Let the yeast bloom until foamy—that shows it’s alive and ready.
- Knead well until the dough is smooth and elastic. It should bounce back when pressed.
- Let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot until it doubles in size. Patience here means fluffier dough.
- After shaping, give it a second rise for an even lighter texture.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for mixing and proofing the dough comfortably.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the dough and filling ingredients just right.
- Rolling pin – helps you roll the dough evenly into a rectangle for filling.
- Skillet or frying pan – ideal for cooking the boudin filling before spreading it on the dough.
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper – keeps the king cake from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Pastry brush – lets you brush on egg wash for a shiny, golden crust.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap boudin for spicy breakfast sausage – still flavorful but easier to find in many stores.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers into the filling for extra veggies and texture.
- Use pepper jack cheese in place of cheddar for a little spicy kick.
- Go vegetarian by replacing boudin with a savory black bean and rice mixture seasoned with Cajun spices.
Boudin King Cake Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 1 package (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup warm water (110°F)
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Filling:
- 1 lb boudin sausage (casing removed and crumbled)
- 1/2 cup cooked white rice
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or bacon grease
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese or blend of cheddar and Parmesan
- 4 slices crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- Mardi Gras colored beads or colored sugar sprinkles (purple, green, gold)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 20 minutes of prep time, plus about 1 to 1 1/2 hours for the first dough rise, 30-40 minutes for a second rise, and 25-30 minutes baking time. Plan for around 3 hours total including cooling and assembling.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast into warm water and let it bloom for about 5 minutes until foamy. In a large bowl, mix the warm milk, sugar, softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir in the yeast mixture. Add 2 cups of flour and salt, mixing well. Gradually add remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. Turn onto a floured surface and knead 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours until doubled.
2. Make the Boudin Filling:
Heat oil or bacon grease in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion, green bell pepper, and celery; cook about 5 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook another minute. Add crumbled boudin sausage and cooked rice, cooking until heated through (3-4 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat and cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Boudin King Cake:
Punch down the dough and roll onto a floured surface into a 12×18 inch rectangle. Spread the boudin filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border. Starting at a long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Form the log into a ring, pinching the ends together, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Second Rise:
Cover the ring loosely with a towel and let it rise for 30-40 minutes until puffed.
5. Bake the Cake:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the dough with beaten egg for a shiny crust. Sprinkle grated cheese, brown sugar, and crumbled bacon evenly over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Finish and Serve:
Let the king cake cool slightly on a wire rack. Decorate with Mardi Gras colored beads or sugar sprinkles for a festive look. Serve warm with mustard or your favorite spicy dipping sauce.
Enjoy your savory and festive Boudin King Cake—a unique taste of Louisiana tradition!
Can I Use Frozen Boudin for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the boudin completely in the refrigerator overnight before using. This helps it cook evenly and prevents excess moisture from affecting the dough.
Can I Prepare the Dough Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough the day before, let it rise, then punch it down and refrigerate overnight. Bring it to room temperature before rolling out and assembling the cake.
How Should I Store Leftover Boudin King Cake?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm slices gently in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Are There Vegetarian Alternatives for the Filling?
Yes! Try substituting the boudin with a savory mixture of black beans, cooked rice, and Cajun spices for a delicious vegetarian-friendly version.